Ingrown nails can be incredibly painful and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. As someone who has experienced this situation in the past I know how frustrating it can be. However I also know that with proper knowledge and precautions it’s possible to manage and prevent ingrown toenails. In this article I will share with you everything about ingrown toenails from definitions and causes to treatment options and prevention tips.
Table of Contents
Understanding anatomically ingrown toenails: Definitions and causes
Ingrown toenails at the tip of the nail are the tips of the nail that grow into the skin around the nail. This can cause pain swelling and even infection. There are many factors that can contribute to the growth of ingrown-toenails e.g.
- wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Cut your nails too short or not straight
- Trauma to toenails
- fungal disease bacteria
- Genetic factors
If you have ingrown toenails you need to be extra careful when choosing nail polish and shoes.
Characteristics of mature toenails
The symptoms of ingrown-toenails can vary depending on the severity. Some common traits are:
- Pain and weakness on sides of toenails
- Redness and inflammation around toenails
- infection which can be pus or discharge from the infected area
- It is difficult to walk or wear shoes
If you notice any of these symptoms it is important to start treating ingrown toenails immediately to prevent further complications. And I recommend that you make an appointment with our Chiropodist to make sure you are using it properly and to make sure you don’t make it worse.
The dangers of ignoring ingrown toenails
Ignoring ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications e.g.
- infection which can spread to bone or blood and cause death
- Chronic pain and discomfort
- They are toenail rollers
- Don’t move where they can’t move
To avoid these risks it is important to seek treatment for ingrown-toenails as soon as possible. Call our receptionist on 02922474116 to make an appointment.
Treatment options for ingrown toenails
There are several treatment options for ingrown toenails depending on the severity. Some options are:
- Soak the toes in warm water and Epsom salts to reduce swelling and pain
- Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the tip of the nail and encourage it to grow under the skin
- Over-the-counter medications
- to spray antiseptic ointment to prevent infection
- Surgery in which part or all of the nail may be removed
Our HCPC Podiatrists Louise and Chelsea can recommend the best course of treatment for your specific case.
Caring for ingrown-toenails
In addition to seeking treatment there are many self-care options you can take to manage ingrown-toenails e.g.
- Wearing comfortable and well-fitting shoes
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- When the nail is vertical
- avoid cutting the nails too small
- applying warm compounds to the affected area
- elevating the foot to reduce swelling
These self-care strategies can help relieve pain and prevent further complications.
Time to see our HCPC Podiatrist at Fordham-Rees Podiatry
If your ingrown toenails are causing severe pain infection or other complications it is important to seek treatment from an HCPC podiatrist. Our staff are experts in foot and ankle care and can provide you with the treatments needed to manage your condition.
Benefits of seeing a chiropractor at a private podiatry clinic
At our private podiatry clinic our podiatrists and physiotherapists can effectively treat ingrown toenails. Some of the benefits of seeing a chiropractor at our private foot clinics in Cardiff and South Glamorgan include:
- Personal care and attention
- Advanced treatment options
- Proper planning and location
Preventing recurrence of ingrown toenails
Once you have treated ingrown toenails there are several things you can do to prevent them from coming back:
- Wearing appropriate shoes
- When the nail is vertical
- avoid cutting the nails too small
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Applying moisturizer to prevent dry skin
- By taking these preventive measures you can reduce your risk of developing new ingrown-toenails.
A common myth about ingrown toenails
There are many myths about inner toenails that can be misleading or even harmful. Here are some common myths and the truth behind them.
- Myth: Cutting toenails in a “V” shape will block ingrown nails. Truth: This can actually increase the skin of the nail and make the problem worse.
- Myth: Ingrown toenails only affect people who don’t practice good hygiene. Fact: While keeping your feet clean and dry helps your toenails grow there are many other factors that can cause them to grow
- Myth: You can treat ingrown-toenails by soaking them in vinegar. Fact: While vinegar may have antibacterial properties it is not a proven remedy for ingrown-toenails and can actually irritate the skin
Conclusion: The importance of foot care
Ingrown nails can be a painful and frustrating condition but with the right knowledge and precautions they can be managed and prevented. You can keep your feet healthy and pain-free by practising good foot hygiene wearing the right shoes and seeking treatment when needed
If you are experiencing signs of ingrown toenails do not hesitate to seek treatment from our HCPC podiatrists and physiotherapists at our private podiatry clinic. Your feet will thank you!
If you are suffering from ingrown toenails schedule an appointment with your podiatrist today to receive the proper treatment and care you need.
